We hope he will go a step further and reject any cuts to Planned Parenthood.

Banning funding for this vital reproductive health care service would have a devastating effect on poorer communities where unplanned pregnancies can assign young people to another generation who will live in poverty.

While Planned Parenthood supports abortion rights - a red-flag issue with some Republican conservatives - the contraception and health services the organization provides actually help young women avoid the drastic measure. The agency, which is serving increasing numbers of Hispanic and African-American women, is also providing information to more men. Last year, for example, Planned Parenthood gave out 30,000 condoms to Latino men.

The efforts of Planned Parenthood can make a definitive difference in the lives of low-income women – and men, and in so doing improves communities.

We’ve been encouraged by recent stands taken by Sen. Brown; we hope he follows through with his stated support for family planning by rejecting any reduction in funding for Planned Parenthood.